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Science News for March 24, 2026


Mapping radar scattering onto 3D targets

A new SAR interpretation method links bright scattering patterns to specific 3D structures, improving target analysis and physically grounded SAR simulation. The approach outperformed existing methods in image quality evaluation, processing time, and physical interpretability.

SourceJournal of Remote Sensing·JournalJournal of Remote Sensing·DateMar 24, 2026

International researchers develop practical recommendations to strengthen cancer microbiome research

International researchers have developed a checklist of best practices for cancer microbiome research, emphasizing the importance of preventing contamination and validating findings. The guidelines aim to improve reproducibility and confidence in the field, supporting future discoveries about microbes and cancer.

High-performance catalytic membranes slash costs and boost efficiency in pharmaceutical wastewater treatment

Researchers developed high-performance catalytic membranes using MXene nanosheets and microfiltration techniques, achieving efficient removal of emerging contaminants like antibiotics from pharmaceutical wastewater. The membranes showed improved stability, antifouling performance, and permeation flux, cutting treatment costs by over 30%.

Sharper forest insights from spaceborne LiDAR

A new study found that ignoring woody parts and using one representative leaf spectrum have minor effects on simulated waveforms, while assuming a uniform foliage area volume density causes larger errors. The research provides guidance for designing faster analytical models that remain physically reliable.

SourceJournal of Remote Sensing·JournalJournal of Remote Sensing·DateMar 24, 2026

Iron, carbon, and the art of toxic cleanup

Researchers at Tongji University have discovered that ferrihydrite is a highly effective mineral in trapping chromium and storing organic carbon. This finding has significant implications for environmental remediation, enabling the development of nature-based solutions to clean up contaminated mine soils while sequestering carbon.

SourceBiochar Editorial Office, Shenyang Agricultural University·JournalCarbon Research·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 24, 2026

Brewing protein from greenhouse gases: A greener, more profitable alternative to farming

A new study by Beijing University of Chemical Technology proves that feeding methane to bacteria outperforms traditional soy and fish meal in both ecological savings and financial returns. The bacterial alternative eliminates the need for arable land and fresh water, effectively halting deforestation and marine depletion.

SourceBiochar Editorial Office, Shenyang Agricultural University·JournalCarbon Research·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 24, 2026

Powering the future of South Asia: The economic math behind carbon neutrality

A collaborative study from The University of Haripur and China University of Mining and Technology provides a concrete roadmap for balancing regional wealth with environmental health. To achieve true carbon neutrality, governments must aggressively fund renewable energy grids and realign outdated industrial frameworks.

Finding order in disorder: A new mechanism that amplifies transverse electron transport

A study by researchers at Pohang University of Science & Technology discovered that engineered disorder can amplify transverse electron transport in magnetic materials. The findings suggest that deliberately using disorder in materials design could lead to new opportunities in spintronics and thermoelectric energy-conversion technologies.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMar 24, 2026

Turning crop waste into climate solutions: Biochar reduces greenhouse gas emissions in bamboo forests

A new study reveals that biochar can significantly reduce nitrous oxide emissions from forest soils, shifting them from a source to a potential climate solution. Biochar was found to suppress key microbial genes responsible for producing N2O while increasing the abundance of microbes that convert it into harmless nitrogen gas.

SourceBiochar Editorial Office, Shenyang Agricultural University·JournalBiochar·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 24, 2026

New research suggests FDA should consider redesign of proposed nutrition labels

A new study published in The Lancet Public Health suggests that the FDA's proposed nutrition label should be redesigned to highlight products high in added sugar, sodium, or saturated fat. Researchers found that an 'easy-to-understand' label design made it easier for consumers to identify healthier choices.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalThe Lancet Public Health·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMar 24, 2026

Parenting programs can improve wellbeing for families from diverse backgrounds

A new study published in The Lancet Public Health found that community-based parenting programmes like Strengthening Families, Strengthening Communities can improve family wellbeing and reduce health inequalities. Parents who participated reported higher levels of mental wellbeing and improved relationships with their children.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalThe Lancet Public Health·TypeObservational study·DateMar 24, 2026

Breast cancer recurrence remains low, even after ten years, with radiotherapy tailored to patient’s individual risk

A recent study found that breast cancer recurrence remains low even after ten years when patients receive tailored radiotherapy. The research involved 848 patients who underwent chemotherapy and surgery, and showed that radiotherapy can be reduced or eliminated in low-risk patients, leading to a significant decrease in side effects.

Breast reconstruction using polyurethane-coated implants reduces scarring and the need for further surgery

A new study shows that polyurethane-coated breast implants are associated with lower rates of capsular contracture and the need for corrective surgery after radiotherapy. Women who received these implants had a significantly lower risk of developing scarring and needing further surgery compared to those who received standard implants.

New tool shines light on hidden protein mystery

Rice scientists develop simple method to study pyroglutamate, unlocking new insights into how proteins function and form. The technique uses blueish light to initiate chemistry that allows researchers to find out the roles of this ubiquitous modification.

SourceRice University·JournalAngewandte Chemie·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 24, 2026

After record-breaking results in fusion research, this highly successful project is winding down to make way for new experiments

The Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory successfully completed its marathon run on the Large Helical Device, yielding key findings about fusion energy. The experiment produced world-record milestones, including sustained megawatt-level plasmas for nearly an hour, and demonstrated a unique feature to produce resilient plasmas.

Screening and preventive treatment program reduced tuberculosis incidence 83% among Tibetan children living in northern India

A recent study shows that a comprehensive TB screening and treatment program reduced TB incidence by 83% and prevalence of latent TB infection by 32% among Tibetan children in northern India. The program's success highlights the importance of community-led surveillance and treatment implementation to control TB transmission.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalThe Lancet Regional Health - Southeast Asia·DateMar 24, 2026

Climate change and the private solution trap

A new study found that wealthier nations tend to invest more in private solutions, exacerbating climate change. The research involved over 7,500 participants from 34 countries, who took part in a simulation on how economic resources are allocated to address climate change.

SourceUniversità di Bologna·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 24, 2026

Expert commentary in leading cardiology journal suggests Transcendental Meditation reduces stress-related cardiovascular risk

The Transcendental Meditation technique produces a physiological state of 'restful alertness,' reducing sympathetic nervous system activity and increasing parasympathetic tone. Large international studies have shown that psychosocial stress substantially increases cardiovascular disease risk, including heart attack and stroke.

SourceMaharishi International University·JournalNature Reviews Cardiology·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateMar 24, 2026

Severe infections may raise dementia risk, study finds

A Finnish registry study found that severe infections, such as cystitis and bacterial disease, are associated with an increased risk of dementia. The study examined nationwide health registry data and identified 29 diseases linked to dementia risk, including mental disorders, Parkinson's disease, and alcohol-related mental disorders.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateMar 24, 2026

Vivid dreaming makes sleep feel deeper

Researchers found that immersive dreaming, even with wake-like brain activity, leads to a greater feeling of deep sleep. Vivid dreams are associated with subjective deeper sleep, while abstract thoughts are related to more shallow feelings.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 24, 2026

An international team led by the Universitat Politècnica de València has developed one of the most detailed brain atlases in the world

An international team led by Universitat Politècnica de València has developed HoliAtlas, a highly detailed structural atlas of the human brain. This comprehensive map will aid in studying neurological diseases, including Alzheimer's and Parkinson's, and enable more accurate diagnoses.

SourceUniversitat Politècnica de València·JournalScientific Reports·TypeImaging analysis·DateMar 24, 2026

Improved heart and kidney outcomes for type 1 diabetes patients taking GLP-1 weight loss drugs

A large study using simulated clinical trial analysis based on medical records found that GLP-1 receptor agonist drugs reduced the risk of major cardiovascular events and end-stage kidney disease in type 1 diabetes patients. The study, led by Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, showed significant risk reductions without in...

Astronomy student discovers second planet around young star

Researchers have discovered a second planet, WISPIT 2c, in the same system as the previously detected WISPIT 2b, which is estimated to be about 5 million years-old and has a mass ten times that of Jupiter. The young gas giant was detected using the European Southern Observatory's Very Large Telescope Interferometer.

SourceUniversity of Galway·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·TypeObservational study·DateMar 24, 2026

Widespread temptations bad news for people with a high risk of diabetes

A recent study found that people with a high genetic predisposition to type 2 diabetes are increasingly developing the disease, possibly due to societal changes such as easy access to unhealthy foods and sedentary leisure activities. In contrast, individuals with low genetic risk remained protected throughout the study period.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalThe Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 24, 2026

The Wired Belts are the new Rust Belts

The American AI Jobs Risk Index projects 9.3 million US jobs at risk of displacement in the next 2-5 years, with a midpoint of approximately $757 billion in annual income loss. High-earning knowledge workers and occupations in Information, Finance, and Professional Services are most vulnerable to AI-driven job displacement.

Overconfident CEOs are less likely to delegate responsibility – particularly when it may help the most

A study found that overconfident CEOs are 10-15% less likely to delegate responsibilities, especially in complex transactions and when acquiring companies in unfamiliar industries. This suggests that executives who are overly confident may struggle with delegating tasks effectively.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalJournal of Management Studies·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 24, 2026

Youth in foster care with disabilities may need tailored services that support the transition into adulthood

A recent study by Melissa Villodas and Gilbert Gimm found that youth in foster care with disabilities received special education and mentoring services at higher rates than others. In contrast, those without disabilities used room and board financial assistance more frequently. The researchers' interdisciplinary collaboration aims to i...

SourceGeorge Mason University·JournalChildren and Youth Services Review·DateMar 24, 2026

University of Houston BRAIN Center finds exposure to nature associated with reductions in negative emotions

A systematic review and meta-analysis of 33 studies found that nature exposure is associated with reductions in negative emotions and increases in positive emotions. Experts recommend integrating nature into urban design to promote brain health and treat mental illnesses.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·DateMar 24, 2026

When violence is in the air

A study by University of Konstanz researcher Lion Kircheis found a consistently elevated violent crime rate in Seattle on days with wildfires, with 3.6% more assaults reported on smoky days compared to regular ones.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateMar 24, 2026

Imaging the Moon’s interior with fiber-optics

Using Distributed Acoustic Sensing technology, scientists deployed fibre-optic cables across the lunar surface to detect seismic waves generated by moonquakes, meteorites, and landings. The cables can record signals at a higher spatial resolution than traditional seismic networks.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalEarth and Space Science·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMar 24, 2026

Quantum sensors on the move

Researchers at IISc created a method to precisely steer quantum sensors through living cells, overcame challenges like viscous drag and brownian motion. This breakthrough enables real-time measurement of parameters such as local viscosity and temperature inside cells.

SourceIndian Institute of Science (IISc)·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateMar 24, 2026

Aggressive female fish put stop to mating - may lead to new species

Research from Lund University reveals that female mosquitofish from different habitats exhibit aggression towards males from other environments, leading to reduced fertilization success and potential reproductive isolation. This phenomenon highlights the importance of female resistance as a mechanism underlying evolutionary processes.

SourceLund University·JournalBMC Ecology and Evolution·DateMar 24, 2026

Composite powder design strategy enabling vatphotopolymerization 3D printing of lithium disilicateglass-ceramics with high precision, strength, and antibacterial properties

A new composite powder design strategy enables the 3D printing of lithium disilicate glass-ceramics with improved precision, strength, and antibacterial properties. The material achieves a three-point flexural strength of 297.28 MPa and superior mechanical properties.

SourceTsinghua University Press·JournalJournal of Advanced Ceramics·DateMar 24, 2026

SKKU reveals the origin of polarity inversion in polymer semiconductors

A research team has elucidated the mechanism behind polarity inversion in polymer semiconductors, revealing that it occurs when dopant uptake exceeds a critical threshold. This phenomenon enables both p-type and n-type behavior in a single material, simplifying device structures and improving manufacturing efficiency.

SourceSungkyunkwan University External Affairs Division (PR team)·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateMar 24, 2026

Powering the future: swarm intelligence unlocks optimal integration of distributed generation and fast EV charging in smart cities

A new study uses swarm intelligence to optimize the integration of distributed generation and fast Electric Vehicle Charging Stations in power distribution networks. The approach reduces active power losses by up to 68% and enhances voltage profiles across the network.

SourceBeijing Institute of Technology Press Co., Ltd·JournalGreen Energy and Intelligent Transportation·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 24, 2026

New journal Health Engineering launches to bridge engineering innovation and the future of human health

Health Engineering combines engineering principles with life sciences to address pressing global health challenges, focusing on prevention, precision intervention, and long-term health maintenance. The journal publishes interdisciplinary research across various fields, including biomaterials, synthetic biology, and precision medicine.

SourceTsinghua University Press·JournalHealth Engineering·DateMar 24, 2026

Ultrasonic welding creates lithium-garnet interface in seconds

Researchers at Tohoku University's Advanced Institute for Materials Research developed an unprecedented method to bond lithium metal directly to garnet-type oxide electrolyte using ultrasonic welding. This technique reduces interfacial resistance and establishes direct solid-state contact without melting or thermal activation.

IGFBP1 shows promise as a non-invasive biomarker for monitoring disease activity in elderly IBD patients

A recent study found that IGFBP1 levels are significantly higher in elderly IBD patients and negatively correlated with inflammation-related markers. Elevated IGFBP1 levels were associated with lower clinical, endoscopic, and histological disease activity, suggesting a promising non-invasive tool for managing elderly IBD patients.

SourceFAR Publishing Limited·JournalCurrent Molecular Pharmacology·DateMar 24, 2026

Programmable ‘smart stamp’ transfers microscopic chips to build 3D circuits

Researchers develop programmable system to selectively pick up and place delicate electronic components, enabling mass production of defect-free displays and 3D microchips. The 'smart stamp' technology uses localized heating to control a polymer's stickiness, allowing precise transfer of semiconductor chips and other materials.

SourceInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·JournalInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·DateMar 24, 2026

No more concerns about side effects! DGIST develops the world’s first next-generation hair loss therapeutic agent safe for both men and women

The research team developed a novel peptide MLPH that promotes hair growth without side effects of existing drugs, using computational modeling. In vivo experiments confirmed significant hair growth effects comparable to minoxidil, without hematopoietic side effects.

SourceDGIST (Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalBiomedicine & Pharmacotherapy·DateMar 24, 2026

Chronic stress and the course of cancer

A systematic review highlights the biological mechanisms linking chronic stress to cancer course, including HPA axis activation and immune suppression. Chronic stress affects tumor growth, treatment resistance, and patient outcomes differently across various cancers.

SourceWroclaw Medical University·JournalInternational Journal of Molecular Sciences·TypeLiterature review·DateMar 24, 2026

Pioneering detection of lithium plating in lithium-ion capacitors enables safer ultra-fast charging for next-generation energy storage

Researchers developed an accurate detection approach for lithium plating in lithium-ion capacitors, enabling safe exploitation of their full potential. The study reveals that lithium plating initiates at a charging rate of 20 C and can be reversed under certain conditions, but above 50 C, irreversible 'dead' lithium accumulates.

SourceBeijing Institute of Technology Press Co., Ltd·JournalGreen Energy and Intelligent Transportation·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 24, 2026

Barren environments don’t just restrict animals—they intensify and prolong pain

A comprehensive review reveals that barren housing rewires pain biology, amplifying and prolonging it. In contrast, enriched environments support natural pain regulation mechanisms, enabling early detection of illness. This systematic underestimation of animal pain has significant implications for welfare assessment frameworks, analges...

SourceWelfare Footprint Institute·JournalFrontiers in Animal Science·TypeLiterature review·DateMar 24, 2026

Inorganic high‑performance fiber‑based materials for electromagnetic interference shielding: fundamentals, fabrications, and emerging applications

Researchers developed inorganic high-performance fiber-based materials for electromagnetic interference shielding, offering valuable insights into the development of next-generation lightweight and durable EMI shielding materials. The review highlights the importance of interdisciplinary research to drive innovation in this field.

SourceShanghai Jiao Tong University Journal Center·JournalNano-Micro Letters·TypeNews article·DateMar 24, 2026

New study argues AI is reopening the “end of history” and forcing a fundamental rethink of education

A recent study proposes educational reconfiguration as the key to rebuilding trust and legitimacy in the age of artificial intelligence. The research identifies three singular transformations driven by AI and calls for a deeper structural transformation, focusing on cultivating civic literacy and human-AI collaboration.

SourceECNU Review of Education·JournalECNU Review of Education·TypeContent analysis·DateMar 24, 2026

Breakthroughs in wireless power and data transfer systems pave the way for advanced biomedical implants

Recent advancements in wireless power and data transfer (WPDT) systems for biomedical implants have led to significant improvements in power transfer efficiency, data communication capabilities, and biosafety. Innovative solutions such as reconfigurable power amplifiers, adaptive delay-compensated active rectifiers, and machine learnin...

SourceELSP·JournalNeuroelectronics·TypeSystematic review·DateMar 24, 2026

Talking about politics at work may support employee well-being

New research suggests that discussing politicized news with coworkers can help employees manage stress and improve well-being. However, most people only discuss these events when they expect a supportive response. The findings highlight the importance of recognizing how social and political events shape employee emotions at work.

SourceWashington State University·JournalAcademy of Management Discoveries·TypeSurvey·DateMar 24, 2026

Boys ditch books when schools close – girls keep reading

A new study from the University of Copenhagen found that when schools are closed, girls tend to spend more time reading and borrow more books than boys. This widening gap in reading habits has significant implications for education and literacy rates, as research suggests that reading skills are crucial for continued academic success.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 24, 2026

Medical societies call for ‘ALARA+’ safety standard to reduce radiation and injury risks in fluoroscopy labs

Nine medical societies endorse 'ALARA+' safety framework to minimize radiation exposure and orthopedic strain in fluoroscopy labs, aiming to ensure safer environments, equipment, and care. The new standard aims to reduce occupational harms affecting healthcare staff, including chronic pain and spinal conditions.

Study shows COVID-19 pandemic’s disrupted young children’s executive function development

A study found that the COVID-19 pandemic slowed the development of executive function skills in young children, leading to systemic academic and behavioral challenges. The research, tracking over 3,100 children from age 3 to 11, suggests that supporting executive function may be a key recommendation for pandemic recovery efforts.

SourceSociety for Research in Child Development·JournalChild Development·TypeObservational study·DateMar 24, 2026

Large language models and creativity

A recent study published in PNAS Nexus found that large language models (LLMs) produce homogeneous creative outputs, regardless of the specific model used. This suggests that LLMs as a whole, rather than individual models, may be contributing to the lack of diversity in their responses.

SourcePNAS Nexus·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateMar 24, 2026

B-type natriuretic peptide as a predictor of kidney disease progression in diabetes

A recent study found that B-type natriuretic peptide is independently associated with chronic kidney disease progression in individuals with diabetes. Combining BNP with urinary markers such as UACR improves risk prediction, highlighting its potential role in early detection and management of kidney disease.

SourceJuntendo University Research Promotion Center·JournalDiabetes Research and Clinical Practice·TypeObservational study·DateMar 24, 2026

The origin of the mysterious X-rays from Gamma Cas identified

Astronomers from the University of Liège have solved a 50-year-old stellar mystery by attributing the X-rays emitted by Gamma Cas to a magnetic white dwarf orbiting the star. The study used high-energy astrophysics instrumentation and revealed that the X-rays are associated with the compact companion, not the massive Be star itself.

SourceUniversity of Liège·JournalAstronomy and Astrophysics·DateMar 24, 2026

XRISM solves famous star’s 50-year mystery

Astronomers have solved a 50-year-old mystery surrounding the star gamma-Cas, revealing that its unusual high-energy X-rays are linked to the orbital motion of an invisible white dwarf companion. This breakthrough was made possible by unique high-resolution observations from the European Space Agency's XRISM mission.

SourceEuropean Space Agency·JournalAstronomy and Astrophysics·TypeObservational study·DateMar 24, 2026

Use of controversial weedkiller inadvertently selects for drug-resistant bacteria that can spread to hospitals

Scientists have found evidence that glyphosate, a widely used weedkiller, can select for drug-resistant bacteria that can thrive in agricultural areas and then spread to hospitals. The study revealed that bacterial strains from hospital infections with extreme drug resistance showed high resistance to glyphosate and its byproducts.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Microbiology·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 24, 2026

Boosting water electrolysis catalyst performance via simultaneous control of lattice distortion and oxygen vacancies!

A novel catalyst design enables simultaneous control of lattice structure and oxygen vacancies in molybdenum oxide, achieving high water electrolysis performance using low-cost, non-precious metal-based catalysts. The technology has strong potential for commercialization as a key catalyst for eco-friendly hydrogen production.